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Shore to Ship Technology in Malta’s Grand Harbour

Shore to Ship Technology in Malta’s Grand Harbour

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  • Maritime

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3 minutes
Shore-to-Ship technology, also known as Onshore Power Supply (OPS) or cold ironing, allows vessels to connect to an onshore electrical grid while docked. This technology enables ships to turn off their engines and draw power from the land-based electrical system, significantly reducing emissions and noise pollution in port areas.

Key benefits of Shore-to-Ship technology include:

  1. Reduced Emissions: By using shore power, ships can significantly lower their air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, helping to improve air quality in coastal regions.
  2. Energy Efficiency: Ships can operate more efficiently by relying on a stable land power supply rather than running onboard generators.
  3. Noise Reduction: Turning off engines while docked reduces noise pollution, creating a quieter environment for nearby residents and wildlife.
  4. Support for Decarbonization: This technology contributes to broader efforts aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of maritime activities and aligns with international and national climate commitments.

 

Malta has become the first country in the Mediterranean Sea to fully implement Shore-to-Ship technology by successfully integrating an OPS system in Valletta’s Grand Harbour. Prime Minister Robert Abela inaugurated this long-awaited project on the 10th July 2024, following an eight-month trial phase. This milestone has come into fruition due to the Maltese government’s investment in the necessary infrastructure to support OPS, focusing on high-voltage shore connections specifically for cruise liners. The initiative involved installing 17 connection points along key quays, such as Pinto Wharf, Deep Water Quay, and Boiler Wharf, enabling cruise liners equipped with OPS technology to connect to the onshore electrical grid which will be able to provide up to 64 Megavolt Amperes of power, utilizing either 11KV or 5.5KV at frequencies of 50Hz or 60Hz.

 

In addition, the system will allow up to five cruise liners to be powered by the grid simultaneously and according to the government, this initiative is expected to reduce pollution by 90% for the approximately 17,000 residents living around the Grand Harbour. This reduction is particularly important given the Grand Harbour’s proximity to densely populated residential and commercial areas and the investment aims to support both EU and national climate goals by aligning with commitments to lower the carbon footprint of land-based port operations and promote the decarbonization of shipping.

 

That being said, this significant reduction will take full effect in 2030, when Regulation (EU) 2023/1805 on the use of renewable and low-carbon fuels in maritime transport, and amending Directive 2009/16/EC is implemented. This regulation is a fundamental cornerstone to support the transition towards more sustainable modes of transport, and to put the Union on track for the full decarbonisation of the transport sector by 2050.

As of 2024, only one-third of the vessels visiting the Valletta Grand Harbour are equipped with OPS technology and ships will not be required to use this technology until the EU Fit for 55 package takes effect in 2030 relating to EU’s target of reducing net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030​. This proposed package aims to bring EU legislation in line with the 2030 goal.

 

For more information on shore-to-ship technology, contact us on [email protected]. 

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Yanika Ciantar-Barbara

Lawyer

Dr. Ciantar-Barbara is an experienced lawyer specialising in corporate and commercial law. She graduated with a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Malta in 2012 and went on to obtain a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Corporate and Commercial Law from Queen Mary, University of London in 2014.

With over a decade of experience at a leading Big Four firm, Dr Ciantar-Barbara has advised a wide range of local and international clients on complex company law matters. Her practice covers all stages of a company’s lifecycle, including formation, continuation, restructuring, cross-border mergers and divisions, acquisitions, and liquidations. She also assists clients with their day-to-day corporate governance and compliance obligations, including beneficial ownership requirements and statutory reporting.

In addition to her core focus on corporate law, Dr Ciantar-Barbara has handled various employment law matters, offering guidance on issues such as employment contracts and
workplace policies.

Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners.

Yanika Ciantar-Barbara

Legal Consultant

Dr. Ciantar-Barbara is an experienced lawyer specialising in corporate and commercial law. She graduated with a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Malta in 2012 and went on to obtain a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Corporate and Commercial Law from Queen Mary, University of London in 2014.

With over a decade of experience at a leading Big Four firm, Dr. Ciantar-Barbara has advised a wide range of local and international clients on complex company law matters. Her practice covers all stages of a company’s lifecycle, including formation, continuation, restructuring, cross-border mergers and divisions, acquisitions, and liquidations. She also assists clients with their day-to-day corporate governance and compliance obligations, including beneficial ownership requirements and statutory reporting.

In addition to her core focus on corporate law, Dr Ciantar-Barbara has handled various employment law matters, offering guidance on issues such as employment contracts and workplace policies.

Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners.

Valeriia Simutina

Valeriia Simutina

Office Administrator

As the Office Administrator at Vaia Legal, Valeriia ensures that the firm’s operations run smoothly and efficiently. She specializes in administrative coordination, office management, and business support, allowing the legal team to focus on delivering top-tier services to clients.

Holding a degree in Marketing from Kyiv University, she brings strong organizational and communication skills to her role. Since moving to Malta in 2022, she has been actively involved in office administration, supporting the firm with structured processes and strategic planning. Her ability to anticipate operational needs and implement effective solutions makes her an invaluable part of the Vaia Legal team.

Giovana Cauchioli

Legal Administrator

Giovana Cauchioli joined Vaia Legal as a Legal Administrator, bringing a strong background in legal operations and compliance. She graduated with a Bachelor of Law degree from Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie in 2019 and was admitted to the Brazilian bar in the same year. With several years of experience in litigation and general contracts, Giovana has developed a solid understanding of legal frameworks and regulatory processes.

Her professional experience covers various legal sectors, allowing her to provide valuable support in legal administration, contract management, and compliance-related matters. Throughout her career, she has refined her ability to assist in structuring efficient legal processes and ensuring that regulatory requirements are met.

At Vaia Legal, Giovana plays a key role in facilitating legal operations, ensuring that the firm’s work is carried out smoothly and efficiently. Her analytical approach, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence contribute to the firm’s ability to deliver high-quality legal services to its clients.

Dr. Katrina Abela

Founder

Seasoned Lawyer, specializing in Maritime and Aviation Law, having graduated from the University of Malta in 2013. Experienced in yacht and aircraft sale and purchase transactions as well as ownership structures, customs importations, and registration. Successfully assisted several companies in acquiring a Maltese Air Operator’s Certificate, as the key link between the applicant and local authorities, while also consulting on regulatory matters.


Specialties: Commercial Agreements, Sale and Purchase Transactions for Vessels and Aircrafts, Regulation of Aircraft Customs and VAT Status, Importation and Registration matters, AOC applications, Ownership structures and others



Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates, Malta Business Aviation Association, Malta Maritime Law Association and the Advocacy Committee of the European Business Aviation Association.